My name is Linda. I’ve been living in New Zealand for 15 years, but my roots trace back to Hong Kong, where I grew up speaking Cantonese and Mandarin. Life brought me to New Zealand after a few years in Japan, where I picked up a little Japanese. When I first arrived here, my English was pre-intermediate—good enough for daily tasks like shopping, but my thick Hong Kongese accent often made it hard for others to understand me. I knew I had to improve if I wanted to truly settle into my new home.

That’s when I found DynaSpeak. I was searching online for English courses, and their website stood out to me. From the moment I joined, I felt supported. The teachers were patient and professional, always taking the time to explain things clearly and repeating when needed. They encouraged me to think in English, not just translate from my native languages, and they even wove New Zealand culture into the lessons, helping me understand the Kiwi way of life.

Now, I’m studying at Level 3, and I’ve come a long way. My listening skills have improved tremendously—I can follow the news, understand phone conversations, and engage in discussions without hesitation. Reading, which once felt like a chore, has become much easier. I can quickly read billboards, signs, and even longer texts. DynaSpeak has given me a comfortable and encouraging space to grow, and I’ve made wonderful friends along the way.

But my journey doesn’t end here. My long-term goal is to finish Level 5 academic English and pursue a degree in Law or Medicine at a New Zealand university. It’s a big dream, but I’m determined to make it happen. Every day, I remind myself of how far I’ve come and how much I’ve achieved. New Zealand is no longer just a place I live in—it’s my home. And with each step forward, I’m building the future I’ve always wanted.